NOTE: These are the 2012 class sessions. 2013 sessions coming soon.

Jump to a day:

• Thursday, Oct. 11
• Friday, Oct. 12
• Saturday, Oct. 13
• Sunday, Oct. 14

Thursday, Oct. 11, 2012

K9

This year, our four-day K-9 instruction will be led by Tactical Dog Enterprises (TDE K9). Luis Ledbetter and his cadre of instructors bring leadership, professionalism, and the highest quality of positive instruction with over 125 years of combined experience in their K9 training areas. This year's specialty training will include: four days of professional instruction; conference materials; on-site lunch on Thurs. 10/11; a meet-and-greet on 10/11 with beverages and appetizers; on-site breakfast on Fri. 10/12; a "Vendor Night" on 10/12 with SAR gear giveaways, beverages and appetizers; and a banquet with entertainment on Sat. 10/13. USMA Certification is an additional $40, to be paid to TDE K9 (pass or fail) on the last day of training.

K9 Trailing: Basic to Advanced Handlers
Luis H. Ledbetter, Kevin Gannon, Shawn Conley, CJ Russell, Ken Mathias of Tactical Dog Enterprises
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (1E) (Orientation/Classroom/Field Exercise)
Spanning the entire four-day conference, this extended course provides hands-on immersion into the techniques of training the scent-specific trailing dog. This is a field-based training opportunity to build K9 Teams that are training for operational success, trails and skills are built from the experiences and actual casework of our diverse instructor staff. The techniques are offered in and open atmosphere to promote education with a heavy emphasis on operational safety. Attendees will cover all aspects of the trailing dog path from collection and introduction of scent, scent theory, reading canine body language, tactics, flanking, and reward. Scenario and exposure-based training will also be offered. Designed for beginning and intermediate-level dogs. Space is limited. (Please no toy breeds.)

Traditional K9 Air Scent
Colin Baessler of Tactical Dog Enterprises
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (2E) (Orientation/Classroom/Field Exercise)
A traditional approach to K9 Air Scent with a twist; instruction will include exposure to an intensity based training method. Students will be introduced to concepts based on real world challenges facing SAR K9 teams as it relates to the deployment and location of missing persons. K9 Teams will be immersed in real world scenarios based on actual successful deployments from the instruction staff. Classroom opportunities will be offered for case review and discussions. Operational safety will also be covered.

Human Remains Detection K9
Edwin Grant and Bobby Blackwell of Tactical Dog Enterprises
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (3E) (Orientation/Classroom/Field Exercise)
Spanning the entire four-day conference, this extended course provides hands-on immersion into the techniques of training the human remains detection (HRD) dog. Classroom opportunities for case reviews and clandestine grave recognition will be offered as part of the four-day track. Field exercises will include both water and land based exercises. Special attention will be given to reading canine body language and developing a solid alert. Many opportunities will be presented to expose the K9 Team to various types of human remains -- and special consideration will be given to setting up real-world scenarios to challenge the attending teams.

Friday, Oct. 12, 2012

KEYNOTE: Maj. General Raymond F. Rees, Adjutant General of the Oregon National Guard

SPEAKER BIO: Major General Raymond F. Rees assumed duties as The Adjutant General for Oregon on July 1, 2005. He is responsible for providing the State of Oregon and the United States with a ready force of citizen soldiers and airmen, equipped and trained to respond to any contingency, natural or manmade. He directs, manages, and supervises the administration, discipline, organization, training and mobilization of the Oregon National Guard, the Oregon State Defense Force, and the Joint Force Headquarters and the Office of Oregon Emergency Management. He is also assigned as the Governor’s Homeland Security Advisor. He develops and coordinates all policies, plans and programs of the Oregon National Guard in concert with the Governor and legislature of the State. He began his military career in the United States Army as a West Point cadet in July 1962.

SAR Management

Managing External Influences in SAR
Tygh Thompson
11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (1A)
SAR missions are frequently subject to any number of external influences, including family and friends of the missing subject, media, political influences, psychics, and spontaneous volunteers. If not managed properly, any of these groups can draw significant energy away from the search effort and present a negative image of the search to the public.
This course will explore many techniques for properly managing these influences to reduce their negative impact on the search and even turn their efforts and interest into a positive result.

Missing At Risk: Understanding and Managing the Search for the Missing At Risk Alzheimer's and Dementia Subject
Kimberly Kelly
1:30 – 3:00 p.m. (2A) Part 1 of 2
3:30 – 5:00 p.m. (3A) Part 2 of 2
"911...what is your emergency?""My mother is gone! She has Alzheimer’s disease and wandered away." The voice is frantic. "Please, send someone quickly!"

Every day across the United States, this scenario is played, and re-played, by law enforcement officers, and search and rescue teams, who respond to missing Alzheimer’s persons. Yet, while this type of call has become more and more commonplace, many persons underestimate the severity of danger that a wandering Alzheimer’s person faces.

This is a comprehensive course designed for law enforcement search and rescue, fire/EMS/public safety personnel, senior care facilities or caregivers who may encounter, or search for, a missing dementia subject.
Because so much of the AD subject's lost person behavior manifests directly into actions in the field, searchers must clearly understand the disease process. "Missing At Risk" walks the student through the progression of the disease, and how that progression, and its related behaviors, so dramatically affect search management for these subjects.

Students learn, through use of audio, video, hands-on examples and actual searches, how to determine whether a subject may be suffering from Alzheimer's (or related dementias); how to properly interview family and caregivers; how to manage the search incident; facts and myths of the AD search; search methods and techniques as well as use of canines, dive teams, trackers, and medical considerations specific to the AD search; how to approach an AD subject in the field, and more.

It is only by understanding this disease, and how it manifests, that we can properly search for, and successfully locate, these subjects. Education is power, and this course clearly and methodically teaches you how to properly harness the power of your teams to better manage the search for missing Alzheimer's and dementia subjects. It is this we do, so that others may live.

Wilderness

Basic Knots for Ground Searchers
Al Tong
11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (1B)
This session will teach knot theory and knot construction. Tong will focus on a small number of knots that are very useful to ground search volunteers. This is a BASIC level class that is primarily directed to ground searchers who are new to the use of ropes and webbing. All attendees are expected to participate in the hands on exercises. Class size is limited to 20 participants. No PPE is required. No equipment is required.

Survival Truths
Peter Kummerfeldt
11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (1Ba)
Benefit from the instructor’s 30 years as a wilderness safety and survival instructor and the lessons he learned along the way. Proven practical survival skills, not primitive skills, will be discussed – skills that work under the most difficult of circumstances.

Operational Fitness for SAR Personnel
Tyler J. Gaenzle
1:30 – 3:00 p.m. (2B) Part 1 of 2
3:30 – 5:00 p.m. (3B) Part 2 of 2
In this session, USCG helicopter rescue swimmer Tyler Gaenzle will demonstrate operational fitness capabilities required to successfully complete water and mountain type rescues -- and how to keep physical and mental prowess throughout your search-and-rescue careers. Gaenzle's session welcomes all fitness levels and experience is not required. He guarantees fun will be had by all!

Basic Survival Challenge
Peter Kummerfeldt
1:30 – 5:00 p.m. (Field Exercise)
Find out if what you think you know really works under field conditions. Bring your SAR pack to the workshop and test it’s contents in the field under the critical eye of a life-long outdoorsman and survival instructor. The emphasis will be on personal protection (fire building, emergency shelters, clothing etc.) and the ability to signal. Where shortcomings are detected Peter will work to upgrade the skills of the student by providing advice, demonstrations, and additional practice opportunities as needed. Class is limited to 15 participants.

Rough Terrain Safety for Ground Searchers
Al Tong and Rob Cruickshank
1:30 - 5:00 p.m. (Field Exercise)
In this field exercise, participants will learn rope and webbing techniques for ground search operations. This class is primarily directed to ground search teams that want to enhance team safety while searching in a rough terrain environment. We will be descending and ascending a steep river bank using basic technical gear that can be carried in a 24 hour SAR pack. Topics and techniques will include: Site evaluation (where are you going and how to get there safely), personal protection equipment (PPE), rope, webbing and gear setup, and Munter hitch belay and Munter hitch rappel

All attendees are expected to participate in the exercise. This is a fast paced course. Knowledge of basic rope and webbing knots is required. Those knots include; figure 8, water knot, overhand on a bight, Prussik, munter hitch and Swiss seat. You must be able to tie these knots without assistance. Depending on your skill level, you may need to attend the Basic Knots for Ground Searchers class. PPEs required. Class size is limited to 16 participants.

Technology

The COM-L in SAR
David Billstrom
11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (1C)
The Communications Unit Leader (COM-L) has long been a key member of the wildland fire incident management team (IMT), and is quickly becoming the standard for all-hazards incidents including SAR. This session will help SAR managers, sheriff’s offices and emergency management offices understand the COM-L’s role in the expanding SAR incident. We will review in detail the interoperability challenge in the SAR environment, proper use of the NIFOG, and channel plans for the SAR incident.

TBD
TBD
1:30 – 3:00 p.m. (2C)
TBD

FLIR's Handheld Thermal Night Vision
Angelo Brewer
6:15 / 6:30 / 6:45 p.m. time slots (3C)
After Sunset (Field Exercise)
Sign-up at the FLIR table in the Cascade Activity Center to participate. Under this year’s format, the workshop combines both classroom training and field exercises to cover both the fundamentals of thermal imaging as well as the actual operation of a FLIR Handheld. Topics that will be covered include the electromagnetic spectrum, infrared cameras and optics, the benefits of thermal imaging over other night vision technologies, factors that influence image quality, and interpretation of imagery. FLIR will also host an exciting field exercise where you can apply your newly learned skills to win prizes.

Medicine

TBD
TBD
11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (1D) Part 1 of 2
1:30 – 3:00 p.m. (2D) Part 2 of 2
TBD

Patient Assessment and Triage (Part 1 of 2)
Taneka Burwell-Means
3:30 – 5:00 p.m. (3D)
The session is an assessment system geared toward the BLS Provider. It will provide first responders a way to efficiently assess and triage patients within a wilderness setting.

K9

K9 Trailing: Basic to Advanced Handlers
Luis H. Ledbetter, Kevin Gannon, Shawn Conley, CJ Russell, Ken Mathias
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Field Exercise)
See session 1E (Thursday, Oct. 11) for description.

Traditional K9 Air Scent
Colin Baessler
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Field Exercise)
See session 2E (Thursday, Oct. 11) for description.

Human Remains Detection K9
Edwin Grant and Bobby Blackwell
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Field Exercise)
See session 3E (Thursday, Oct. 11) for description.

Enhanced SAR

4WD Vehicle Operations Off-road: What 4-Wheel Drive Really is!
Bill Burke
11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (1F)
Personal and Fleet vehicle decisions are important when there are so many unknowns about what 4WD really means. What is ETC, ABS, VST, ATRAC, IFS, Lockers, Limited Slip! How does a differential affect traction in loose terrain! Suspensions, power-train, Original and Aftermarket equipment options, tire selection, All-Wheel Drive, Symmetrical Drive, Full-time 4-wheel drive and Part-time 4-wheel drive. This class will put it all together so you will be more informed, more confident and more aware when operating any vehicle drive system in technical terrain and on-highway as well! Vehicle selection, safety issues, vehicle dynamics and mechanical theory will be covered. We’ll follow up with an in-field session so the theory will sink in as we observe and operate vehicles on a short skill building road section. 4WD vehicle NOT required for this class!

4WD Vehicle Operations Off-road: What 4-Wheel Drive Really is! (REPEAT)
Bill Burke
1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. (2F) -- REPEAT
Personal and Fleet vehicle decisions are important when there are so many unknowns about what 4WD really means. What is ETC, ABS, VST, ATRAC, IFS, Lockers, Limited Slip! How does a differential affect traction in loose terrain! Suspensions, power-train, Original and Aftermarket equipment options, tire selection, All-Wheel Drive, Symmetrical Drive, Full-time 4-wheel drive and Part-time 4-wheel drive. This class will put it all together so you will be more informed, more confident and more aware when operating any vehicle drive system in technical terrain and on-highway as well! Vehicle selection, safety issues, vehicle dynamics and mechanical theory will be covered. We’ll follow up with an in-field session so the theory will sink in as we observe and operate vehicles on a short skill building road section. 4WD vehicle NOT required for this class!

Tracking from the Saddle
Jorene Downs
1:30 – 3:00 p.m. (2Fa)
ManTracking from the saddle can be a huge advantage during a search incident. This class provides the fundamental knowledge for riders to take home and practice. Tips on tracking/searching at night are included. This class builds on the rider's existing basic training for tracking on foot.

Equine Emergency Care on the Trail
Jeff Hall
3:30 – 5:00 p.m. (3F)
In this session, Dr. Jeff Hall will effectively demonstrate how to handle medical emergencies affecting a horse on the trail.

4WD Vehicle Off-Road Operation
Bill Burke
3:30 – 5:00 p.m. (Field Exercise)
Burke will demonstrate, and students will have hands on, vehicle operation in technical terrain. All vehicles from UTV to Tanker Tenders require quality skill sets. Let’s get some good habits under our belts while in the woods. Understand “bump-steer” and articulation and why the 4 tires don’t always give us traction! You don’t need a 4WD to take this class or field session!

Water Rescue

W.A.R.N (Water Awareness in Residential Neighborhoods)
Jerry Richert
11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (1G)
Water Safety Program designed to educate children and adults about water dangers in and around their homes and neighborhoods. This program also addresses simple safety ideas children and adults can use to help in a water emergency. Each attendee will leave with all the material they need to present the program in their area in a variety of formats.

Mitigating Your Risk in Contaminated Water
Jessica Harned
1:30 – 3:00 p.m. (2G)
This session will cover tips on protecting yourself while conducting operations in contaminated water. We will demonstrate proper decontamination as well as discuss the new proposed NFPA Contaminated Water Standard.

Low Overhead Dam Rescue
Walt “Butch” Hendrick
3:30 – 5:00 p.m. (3G)
Low overhead dams require specific training as they present unusually high risks to rescuers. The name of the game is to stay out of the water on these calls. In this session you’ll look at how we can achieve this.

Saturday, Oct. 13, 2012

EVENING: Northwest SARCon Banquet featuring comedian Willie Halliburton

Banquet starts at 5 p.m. • Comedy at 6 p.m.

ABOUT THE COMEDY: Willie Halliburton is a 22-year veteran Portland Police Sergeant who moonlights as a professional stand-up comic and actor.  Willie has been on the comedy scene for 21 years performing comedy shows all over the country.  He has appeared in both feature films and television.  Recently Willie was signed by A&E Television Network to star in his own television series.  Willie gives the audience a chance to view his world as a cop and an African American, with his high-energy stage show.

SAR Management

Reflex Tasking
Craig McClure
9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. (4A) Part 1 of 2
11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (5A) Part 2 of 2
This session will present a short discussion of the principles of Reflex Tasking for the initial operational period followed by scenarios where students will practice generating objectives, tasks, assignments and marking maps for hasty deployments.

Search Area Segmenting for SAR Coordinators
Corey Stone
1:30 – 3:00 p.m. (6A)
This class will explore considerations that must be made when creating “searchable segments” for ground teams. Key items will be: natural segment borders, artificial segment borders, manmade segment borders, segment size related to resource capability, segment size and POD for a limited resource, searcher safety, terrain, vegetation, other hazards (snow, ice, and crevasses), and time necessary to search in daylight. Students will be shown examples for actual search maps and given a mathematical reference table for estimating appropriate search areas by resource level. Different tools for estimating land areas will be shown including MyTopo Terrain Navigator which will be demonstrated to show how to determine the land area on any shape segment.

Legal Issues and Public Expectations in SAR
Brett Stoffel
3:30 – 5:00 p.m. (7A)
This module discusses the basic issues of liability in SAR response, elements used to prove liability, and the most common causes of lawsuits against emergency responders. Emphasis is placed on understanding the law, the legal process and how most lawsuits occur. Volunteer status, Necessity, Good Samaritan Laws and Trespass on private property will be reviewed. We will also explain strategies to avoid lawsuits by individuals and how to protect SAR organizations from lawsuits.

Wilderness

Introduction to Mantracking
Scott and Lisa Robbins
9:00 – 10:30 a.m. (4B)
11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Field Exercise)
The classroom session will include an introduction into how mantracking is used in SAR. Students will be introduced into the step-by-step method of mantracking, the proper use of the tracking stick, the use of print cards and what is evidence of human footfall.

The field session will include practical use of the print card, use of the tracking stick and discovery of various types of ground disturbance caused by human footfall. Students will use the step-by-step method to follow a person’s path.

Students should bring clothing for all weather conditions and bring a 4' dowel or pole to use as a tracking stick, and lunch into the field. Knee pads are recommended but not required. Instructors will bring some tracking sticks to share.

Basic Knots for Ground Searchers (REPEAT)
Al Tong
9:00 – 10:30 a.m. (4Ba) -- REPEAT
See session 1B for description.

Rigging the Sked Stretcher for Basic and Advanced Rescues (Land, Air and Water)
Marcel Rodriguez
9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (Classroom and Field Exercise)
Teams worldwide are familiar with the Sked evacuation stretcher. Nearly every team worldwide possesses a Sked stretcher, but few teams are aware of the full capabilities and rigging techniques to get the most out of this versatile piece of equipment. This session will look at basic rigging and at some of the lesser-known capabilities of the Sked and will review proper rigging techniques for vertical and horizontal high-angle rescues, snow/glacier rescues, helicopter lifts, swiftwater rescue, and ice and dive rescues.

Outdoor Hazards
Peter Kummerfeldt
11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (5B)
Poisonous snakes, bears, cougars, hazardous plant life and other unpleasant encounters in the outdoors. This program emphasizes being able to indentify potential hazards and prevent them from becoming life-threatening incidents.

Visual Detection Techniques
Tygh Thompson
1:30 – 3:00 p.m. (6B) Part 1 of 2
3:30 – 5:00 p.m. (7B) Part 2 of 2
Most subjects and clues are found through a visual process. For searchers to be effective, they must understand how to properly perform a visual search. This class will explorer how the brain and the eyes work together to detect clues. It will also explain why searchers frequently miss clues and how we as searchers can train ourselves to be more effective clue detectors.

Basic Survival Challenge (REPEAT)
Peter Kummerfeldt
1:30 – 5:00 p.m. (Field Exercise) -- REPEAT
See Friday’s Field Exercise for description.

Rough Terrain Litter Transport
Al Tong and Rob Cruickshank
1:30 – 5:00 p.m. (Field Exercise)
In this field exercise, participants will learn about anchors and systems for a litter lower and raise on rough terrain. This class is primarily directed to ground search teams that want to enhance team safety and subject safety while operating in a rough terrain environment. We will explain and demonstrate a 2 line rope system for lowering and raising a litter. The participants will have the opportunity to fully construct and operate the litter system. Topics and techniques will include: Site evaluation (anchors, focal point, edge safety), personal protection equipment (PPE), rope, webbing and gear setup, litter and tender attachment and system operation

All attendees are expected to participate in the exercise. This is a fast paced course. Knowledge of basic rope and webbing knots is required. You must be able to tie the following knots without assistance; figure 8, water knot, overhand on a bight, Prussik, munter hitch, girth hitch and Swiss seat. Depending on your skill level, you may need to attend the Basic Knots for Ground Searchers class. PPEs required. Class size is limited to 16 participants.

Technology

New Technologies for SAR Communications
David Billstrom
9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. (4C)
Once again, we will review the latest technology updates for wireless data and voice communications as it affects public safety generally, and SAR specifically. Technology continues to change at a rapid pace, with changes driven by the vendors… and the FCC, local agencies and national politics. This class will provide an overview, with specific recommendations for when and how to use these technologies in SAR. We will also review the narrowband use of SAR radio channels and the emergence of new SAR radio channels in Oregon, and how this can be most effectively incorporated into SAR preplans and radio programming.

Radio-Over-IP (ROIP) for Public Safety
David Billstrom and Craig McClure
11:00 – 12:30 p.m. (5C)
The military has embraced the use of ROIP for battlefield and logistics voice communications, and it is rapidly gaining momentum in public safety. It is the basis of statewide VHF and 800 MHz radio systems in Washington (Fish & Wildlife) and Ohio (Air Medical EMS), as well as the largest ROIP system in the U.S. -- a 14-state air medical dispatch operation. This class will explain what ROIP is, why and how it is used, and examine three large systems to see both the advantages and limitations of this technology. Technologies from various vendors will be reviewed. See also the companion field exercise "ROIP Deployment in SAR."

GPS Operations
Matt Baker, Ben Corrado and Justin Rigling
1:30 – 3:00 p.m. (6C) Part 1 of 2
3:30 – 5:00 p.m. (7C) Part 2 of 2
GPS Operation will go over the usage of many modern Garmin GPS units used in SAR operations. Topics will include: Components of GPS/NAVSTAR, Features & Operation of the GPS Unit, Mapping & Cartography, Navigation with a GPS Unit and a Map, and Using a GPS in Public Safety Operations.

ROIP Deployment in SAR
David Billstrom and Craig McClure
1:30 – 5:00 p.m. (Field Exercise)
ROIP (Radio-Over-IP) is a technology that is flexible, scalable, and inherently interoperable – and it is already in use in the Northwest SAR community in the field. You may have already used it, and not known it! In this hands-on exercise, we will set up a ROIP system outside in a realistic environment, use it to communicate with SAR teams in the field, and review best practices for setup and operation. Students will gain an understanding of how to set up the equipment, troubleshoot problems, and demobilize the system at the end of a mission. Multiple ROIP systems are available for SAR use in the region – this is an opportunity to learn what they can and cannot do, and how to do it. See also the companion classroom "ROIP for Public Safety."

Medicine

Patient Assessment and Triage (Part 2 of 2)
Taneka Burwell-Means
9:00 – 10:30 a.m. (4D)
See session 3D for description.

Recognition and Treatment of Immersion Hypothermia
Dr. Kevin Walters
11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (5D)
Dr. Walters will provide attendees with an understanding of the signs and symptoms of immersion hypothermia, as well as the steps to take to render initial care and stabilization in the field setting.

Fracture and Dislocation Management
JD Storn and Carrie Friend
1:30 – 3:00 p.m. (6D) Part 1 of 2
3:30 - 5:00 p.m. (7D) Part 2 of 2
The Fracture and Dislocation Management class is aimed at giving a BLS Provider the tools to appropriately assess and manage the full complement of extremity fractures/dislocations in the wilderness environment. The class will be team taught by two experienced Paramedics in order to implement a small group atmosphere and maximize hands on time with the various techniques. Techniques include the use of commercial immobilization devices as well as improvisation techniques. Injury patterns included in the lesson are as follows: Spinal immobilization; NEXUS criteria, extremity fractures: dislocation of the shoulder, hip, and patella; as well as pelvic stabilization. In addition, time will be spent on the assessment and management of athletic injuries that may occur to First Responders while working in the field.

K9

K9 Trailing: Basic to Advanced Handlers
Luis H. Ledbetter, Kevin Gannon, Shawn Conley, CJ Russell, Ken Mathias
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Field Exercise)
See session 1E (Thursday, Oct. 11) for description.

Traditional K9 Air Scent
Colin Baessler
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Field Exercise)
See session 2E (Thursday, Oct. 11) for description.

Human Remains Detection K9
Edwin Grant and Bobby Blackwell
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Field Exercise)
See session 3E (Thursday, Oct. 11) for description.

Enhanced SAR

4WD Off-Road Vehicle Recovery: Getting Your 4WD Unstuck and Safe Extrication of Rescued Vehicles
Bill Burke
9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. (4F)
Burke will cover formulating a quality recovery plan for yourself or the rescued vehicle. Stuck Assessment, Mire Factor, Working Load Limits, rigging, equipment selection and safety, terminology and technology, identifying load resistance versus work effort, familiarity of jacks, winches, straps and blocks will be discussed. Industry safety protocols not just “bubba bare hand winching!” When good driving doesn’t work, how do you get unstuck?

4WD Off-Road Vehicle Recovery: Getting Your 4WD Unstuck and Safe Extrication of Rescued Vehicles (REPEAT)
Bill Burke
11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (5F) -- REPEAT
See session 4F for description.

Mounted Transport and Evacuation
Jorene Downs
11:00 – 12:30 p.m. (5Fa) Classroom
1:30 – 3:00 p.m. (FE-5Fa) (Field Exercise)
In the classroom learn why, when and how the horse or mule can be used advantageously to transport personnel or evacuate a subject in the saddle as an option to the more labor intensive litter carry. These are methods used by NPS and the USA military. Recommended training for riders and all SAR personnel, including incident management.

In the field exercise, you’ll take the knowledge learned in classroom and go hands-on practicing with the saddled horse, including lifts to load and unload a person from the saddle. Spectators are welcome, understanding you may get recruited as a subject to transport or evacuate in the saddle. Rider helmets recommended for hands-on participants.

Helicopter Operations/ Helicopter Hoist Demonstration
Air National Guard
1:30 – 3:00 p.m. (Field Exercise)

Avalanche Awareness
Portland Mountain Rescue (PMR)
3:30 – 5:00 p.m. (7F)

4WD Off-Road Vehicle Recovery in Action
Bill Burke
3:30 – 5:00 p.m. (Field Exercise)
Burke will demonstrate and students will handle all types of recovery equipment. Hands on familiarity of: Hi-Lift Jack, Winch, Traction devices, Dynamic ropes and straps, chain, connections, rigging and use of blocks. Demonstration and evaluation of Stuck Assessment and resistance factors of load to rigging ratio – for all vehicle sizes and compilation, and use of standard vehicle equipment as well as aftermarket equipment will be demonstrated. How to get rocks out of dual tires! Risk management and Incident Command for safe extrication techniques will be discussed and demonstrated. Tips and tricks will be discussed for a safe and reliable recovery. Do not need a 4WD for this field session.

Water Rescue

Conducting a Neurologic Assessment of Injured Divers
Kevin Walters, MD
9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. (4G)
Dr. Walters will explain how diving injuries produce neurologic symptoms and demonstrate practical way to apply the neurologic exam in the field setting in this hands-on session.

Basic Whitewater Safety and Survival
Scott Walker
8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Field Exercise)
Search and Rescue professionals often find themselves working near waterways and should be prepared for what to do if they or someone else falls in. This full-day course will cover basic water hydrology and its effects on a person in the water. It will go over selection and fitting of basic equipment searchers working near waterways should consider. It includes actual in-water exercises -- which will teach basic self and buddy rescue techniques. This course is physically demanding, as students will do some hiking across rocky areas and swimming. Students are encouraged to bring their own equipment and must bring thermal wear, preferably wool/fleece. Suits, headgear, gloves and boots will be provided. This field exercise covers NFPA awareness level. Class is limited to 14 participants. Please provide suit, glove and shoe sizes when registering.

Investigation and Recovery Practices in Water Related Deaths (What About Bob?)
Jeff McLennan
11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (5G)
This session will focus on the investigative knowledge and skills needed in a water related fatality incident. Emphasis will be given to the elements of teamwork between Search and Rescue, support personnel, EMS, law enforcement and medical examiner. A review of human physiology in drowning cases will include commonly found injuries, circumstances and artifact. By learning what happens before, during and after a water related death, students may be better prepared for incident response, coordinating searches and in making changes that result in improved public safety. A valuable part of this presentation includes slides of actual death scenes; some photos may be graphic in nature.

Underwater Movement for Submerged Vehicle, Hull, Bridge and Other Advanced Dive Operations
Andrea Zaferes and Walt “Butch” Hendrick
1:15 – 5:15 p.m. (Field Exercise)
The child is strapped in a car seat in an upside down vehicle submerged in black water. You get there in rescue mode time. Learn what gear you need, how to customize it for your body, and how to safely and effectively search UW. Learn how to swim a few inches above silt without stirring it up, and how to work upside down under hulls, ice and piers. Students are encouraged to bring their own scuba gear (BC tanks, regulator, mask, weights and fins).

Mitigating Your Risk in Contaminated Water (REPEAT)
Jessica Harned
1:30 – 3:00 p.m. (6G)
See session 2G for description.

Coast Guard Search and Rescue: Procedures, Limitations and Stories
O’Brien Starr-Hollow
3:30 – 5:00 p.m. (7G)
This presentation includes a handful of short "Sea Stories" that help to introduce the experiences and job tasks of a rescue swimmer. These stories range from medical evacuations to ocean rescues and cover the gamut of experiences of the instructor's friends and peers in Coast Guard Search and Rescue and will provide the attendee with a clearer perspective on the strengths and limitations of Coast Guard Aviation as well as the scope of their service. The stories will lead further into the capabilities and training of Coast Guard Rescue Swimmers and some perspectives on their job and what they know and what they would like to know. Swift water rescue, open ocean water survival, and coastal hazards will be covered.

Sunday, Oct. 14, 2012

SAR Management

Level of Search Effort – Guidelines and Recommendations for SAR
Martin Colwell
9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. (8A)
Ground SAR teams often under-estimate the amount of time and effort required to conduct an effective ground search response. This presentation discusses the amount of effort actually required, presents some practical guidelines for volunteer SAR to sustain the major search and provides recommended levels of search effort for some common search scenarios.

Managing Risks in SAR – Finding the Balance Between Safety and Effectiveness
Martin Colwell
11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (9A)
Managing risk in SAR is one of the most challenging factors affecting searchers and search planners. This course details the risk factors involved, how they interact with each other, and how they can be balanced and mitigated to provide a reasonably safe and effective search.

Skills and Knowledge Essential for Field Operations in SAR – Not What You Think!
Skip Stoffel
1:30 – 3:00 p.m. (10A)
In the category of SEARCH, there are some fundamental skills and knowledge that are not being commonly presented in standard training. This presentation addresses six additional sets of skills & knowledge not commonly presented that deal directly with search.

Search Planner – A Very Specialized Resource
Skip Stoffel
3:30 – 5:00 p.m. (11A)
A common perception is that the IC must manage the entire search and perform the function of search planning on the incident as well. The function of search planning is a specialized skill like any other special resource & must be both understood and applied properly during search operations.

Wilderness

Map and Compass Demystified
Corey Stone
9:00 – 10:30 a.m. (8B)
11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (Field Exercise)
1:30 – 3:00 p.m. (Field Exercise) -- REPEAT
This session will give the student the skills to shoot and take bearings with a mirrored base plate compass accurately by using the features of the compass to ensure consistency in all conditions. The student will also use the compass to orient a map magnetically and use it as a protractor to determine single bearings on a map as well as bearings between two points. Students are encouraged to bring their own suitable compass, or one will be provided for the duration of the class. Maps will also be provided. The field session portion of this session will provide a practical application of the proper operation of the mirrored base plate compass. Simple exercises that students can replicate for their own teams will be used to practice the fundamentals of consistent accuracy. Particular emphasis will be given to trouble shooting errors in the technique of others.

101 Survival Things to do with a Plastic Bag
Peter Kummerfeldt
11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (9B)
Sometimes the easiest solutions to a problem are the simplest ones. This is also true when it comes to spending an unplanned night out. A plastic bag can make the difference between a cold wet night and a relatively warm one. A plastic bag can clean a wound, keep you afloat, protect your gear, store water and for many other uses.

Instructional Techniques for SAR Instructors
Tygh Thompson
1:30 – 3:00 p.m. (10B) Part 1 of 2
3:30 – 5:00 p.m. (11B) Part 2 of 2
One of the most important positions in any SAR team is that of the instructor. This course is designed for those members in a SAR team who have responsibility for teaching or managing the training for their team. This course is a basic “nuts and bolts” approach on how to prepare, deliver, and document training. If you are an instructor on your team, this course is for you. Forms for documenting and designing the training will also be provided.

Basic Survival Challenge (REPEAT)
Peter Kummerfeldt
1:30 – 5:00 p.m. (Field Exercise) -- REPEAT
See Friday’s Field Exercise for description.

Technology

DeLorme InReach: The World’s First 2-Way Satellite Communicator
Donnie Hatch
9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. (8C)
Hatch will demonstrate the InReach satellite communications device.  It can be used as standalone, handheld device or paired up to Apple/Android smartphones/tablets for enhanced functionality.  It is the only device to provide satellite-based 2-way SOS emergency, 2-way remote tracking, and 2-way free-form email/SMS messaging, & delivery confirmation on all messages sent out.  Learn about this device and it's 100% global coverage.

Amateur Radio in Search and Rescue
Garrett Lang
11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (9C)
Outlines the dos and don'ts in using amateur radio operators in the SAR environment.

Everything you Ever Wanted to Know About Batteries and More!
Garrett Lang
1:30 – 3:00 p.m. (10C)
Batteries, all you wanted to know, and more will outline the differing types of batteries and the care and feeding of the different types and sizes.

Bridging the Gap – 911 and SAR
Michelle Renault
3:30 – 5:00 p.m. (11C)
Bridging the gap between 911 and SAR, discussing 911’s role and the challenges we face. Participants will walk through the process of call taking, activation of a SAR, the working relationships with all parties involved, the technology, communications, “tricks of the trade” used and the documentation of the event. They will also review a SAR mission and discuss the process used and our lessons learned. Then they will follow up with how to improve 911’s relationship with the SAR teams to better our responses.

Medicine

Patient Packaging and Basic Ropecraft
Robert Glaeser
9:00 – 10:30 a.m. (8D)
11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (Field Exercise)
The Patient Packaging class will be hands on instruction in the safe and efficient packaging of a patient within various wilderness rescue environments. The class will focus on packaging techniques that emphasize patient stabilization, comfort, and access for continuous medical assessment during evacuation. Instruction will be in the following categories: Hyper/hypothermia packaging, Stokes litter packaging, use of the S.K.E.D. device, basic knots, carrying techniques, and extended stay considerations. The second part of the session will include an outdoor hands-on scenario.

TBD
TBD
11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (9D)

NW Environmental Illness and Injuries
Joe Rabinowitz
1:30 – 3:00 p.m. (10D)
NW Environmental Injury and Illness is a class focusing on common injury and illness patterns that are experienced by patients in the NW Region. Concentration will be placed on crush injuries, harness induced suspension trauma, heat illness, acute mountain sickness, wilderness dermatology, and anaphylaxis. These six topics have shown over time to be some of the more common patterns found in the care of patients in this region.

Local Case Review and SAR Physician Panel
SAR Physician Panel
3:30 – 5:00 p.m. (11D)
The SAR Physician Panel will be a good opportunity for responders to ask questions regarding the SAR environment. It will also be an opportunity for the Physicians to talk about what their expectations are as well as give clinical advice to our work done in the pre-hospital wilderness care environment. Case reviews will also be conducted regarding local and international rescues or disasters.

K9

K9 Trailing: Basic to Advanced Handlers
Luis H. Ledbetter, Kevin Gannon, Shawn Conley, CJ Russell, Ken Mathias
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Field Exercise)
See session 1E (Thursday, Oct. 11) for description.

Traditional K9 Air Scent
Colin Baessler
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Field Exercise)
See session 2E (Thursday, Oct. 11) for description.

Human Remains Detection K9
Edwin Grant and Bobby Blackwell
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Field Exercise)
See session 3E (Thursday, Oct. 11) for description.

Enhanced SAR

4WD Vehicle/Off-Road Advanced
Bill Burke
9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (8F)
Leadership in the 4WD community. This session (and field exercise) is ideal for those who have taken other classes with Burke or those who are responsible for vetting and training new members of their SAR Team. Delving deeper into the terminology and techniques of 4WD systems and how to share those years of experience with others based on the Participant Centered training philosophy. Consistency of terms, spotting signals, communication, mechanical theory, Situational Awareness, when is Mechanical Sympathy too much and when is Assertive just right! Technical aspects for IC of recovery and vehicle fleet responsibilities. Practical skill development scenario in classroom for ‘team leaders’ as requested. This session also includes how to operate a 4WD vehicle in more technical terrain in demanding conditions.

4WD Vehicle Operations Advanced Field Exercise
Bill Burke
12:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Field Exercise)
This field session will incorporate driving and recovery scenarios which will require team building and help reinforce skill sets. The dynamic environment of learning while doing helps build solid habits and memory motor skills so when the snow hits the fan the experienced and skilled SAR team member can easily dig into the trick bag of tools instead of Googling it! Advanced driving, recovery and theory will be applied during this active scenario. Multiple rigging, splicing and repair of winch ropes, tire repair and a number of other skills will be demonstrated or discussed. Vehicle required or Car Pool. Be prepared to bring you own lunch into the field.

Tracking From the Saddle (REPEAT)
Jorene Downs
11:00 – 12:30 p.m. (9F) -- REPEAT
See session 2Fa for description.

Effective Partnering:  Mounted SAR & SAR Dogs
Jorene Downs
1:30 – 3:00 p.m. (10F)
In SAR, dogs and horses are both search partners. Horses have natural abilities and alerts, and can also be trained to follow a scent. Learn why, how to take advantage of each animal’s strengths, and when and where to send which type of resource. This session is recommended for riders, dog handlers and incident management.

USCG MH-60T Search and Rescue Training
USCG Sector Columbia River
1:30 – 3:30 p.m. (Field Exercise)
Weather and availability permitting, an aircrew from U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Astoria will be in attendance on Saturday demonstrating the Search and Rescue capabilities of the MH-60T “Jayhawk” helicopter and the standard aircrew on board. Trail line tending training for the delivery of rescue equipment immediately following the demonstration.

Avalanche Awareness (REPEAT)
Portland Mountain Rescue (PMR)
3:30 – 5:00 p.m. (11F) -- REPEAT
See session 7F for description.

Water Rescue

Coast Guard Search and Rescue: Procedures, Limitations and Stories (REPEAT)
O’Brien Starr-Hollow
9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. (8G) -- REPEAT
See session 7G for description.

Shallow Water Crossing for SAR
Scott Walker
8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Field Exercise)
Search and Rescue professionals frequently encounter shallow creeks, streams, and other water bodies in assigned search areas. Crossing them can be challenging, and there are often hidden dangers. This all-day field exercise will focus on a variety of safe shallow-water crossings. It will expose attendees to several water-crossing techniques -- practicing not only safe crossing methods, but also methods for safely moving victims across. This course is physically demanding, including hiking and actual water crossings. Students are encouraged to bring their own equipment and must bring thermal wear, preferably wool/fleece. Suits, headgear, gloves and boots will be provided. Please provide suit and shoe sizes when registering. Class is limited to 14 participants.  

Prerequisite: This course requires previous attendance of the "Basic River Safety and Survival" course (during this or previous years) or proof of similar course completion.

Low Overhead Dam Rescue (REPEAT)
Walt “Butch” Hendrick
11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (9G) -- REPEAT
See session 3G for description.

PSD Fatalities and Lessons Learned
Jerry Richert
1:30 – 3:00 p.m. (10G)
After two PSD training fatalities in less than two years, the Indianapolis fire department learned that job specific dive training is vital to saving your own. Basic recreational scuba courses are a beginning but dive teams can’t stop there. Job specific Public Safety Dive Training from a reputable organization is mandatory to building a safe and effective team. You can learn from our mistakes and success.